51 - How can I Overcome the Darkness? The Power of Faith and Authentic Leadership

First Responder Wellness Podcast

51 - How can I Overcome the Darkness? The Power of Faith and Authentic Leadership

In this conversation, Host, Conrad Weaver interviews Jason Sautel, a former firefighter, about his experiences and struggles with mental health in the first responder community. They also discuss the role of faith in healing and the need for support systems within the fire service. The conversation touches on topics such as the impact of childhood trauma, the challenges of being a first responder, and the importance of finding a community that understands and supports mental health. The conversation explores the themes of hope, connection, leadership, and support within the first responder community. It emphasizes the importance of planting seeds of hope and reaching out for help. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by first responders and the need for authentic leadership. The guest shares his personal journey of finding hope and healing through faith and encourages others to do the same. The conversation concludes with a discussion on off-gassing and the importance of finding joy and laughter in life.

TAKEAWAYS

• First responders often join the fire service to hide or mask their own traumas and struggles.
• The traumas of the job can amplify existing struggles and lead to mental health issues.
• Faith-based support systems can provide healing and a sense of community for first responders.
• There is a need for more programs and resources that address the mental health needs of first responders.
• Finding a mentor or support group within the fire service can be beneficial for navigating the challenges of mental health.
• Planting seeds of hope and reaching out for help are crucial for individuals struggling with darkness and emptiness.
• Authentic leadership is needed within the first responder community, with leaders who are present, supportive, and willing to listen.
• Finding hope and healing through faith can be a powerful journey for individuals in the first responder community.
• Connecting with a local church and supportive community can provide a source of hope and guidance.
• Off-gassing and finding joy and laughter in life are important for self-care and rejuvenation.

ABOUT OUR GUEST (In his own words)

I write, surf, pray, follow Jesus, and eat donuts.

I am passionate about helping anyone feeling hopeless see that you always have choices. I love walking alongside those who are hurting to give them the encouragement and hope they deserve—whether that’s face-to-face or online. I love my wife of sixteen years, Kristie, our four two-legged children, our two four-legged children, and appreciate God’s gifts of donuts, surfing, and Maui.

The simplicity and security of my Southern Californian childhood quickly came to a halt the day my parents divorced when I was eight. I was raised by my father, a Vietnam vet afflicted by the demons of his past.Being a father never came naturally to him, and to say my childhood years were rough would be an understatement.

Imagine the environment it would take for a ten-year-old child to consider suicide.

When I was a sophomore, the school system finally tossed me out. I finished my entire school career without reading a single book, completing a homework assignment, or making any true friends. An urge—what I now know was a calling—to serve people inspired me to join a local volunteer fire department. At age 18, I watched my class graduate and receive their diplomas. I was a seasonal firefighter, across the street on the back of a fire engine, hoping no one would recognize me or sense my shame.

While working as a fireman, I began a downward spiral.

One year later, I found myself in downtown Oakland, assigned to one of the toughest firehouses in the country. Despite my past, I excelled at my job. Against all odds, becoming a decorated firefighter saved my life, but it didn’t save my soul. I continued to walk in the dark, spiraling down into the pain of hopelessness. I was at the end of my rope when a girl entered this broken guy’s life and showed me something I had never seen or felt before.

I am a bruised and broken man who has been restored by God’s grace and I want to share it with the world! When I first started my Facebook page “Jesus. He is all we need” I never expected it to grow the way it has. It has been a total blessing. Being connected with hundreds of thousands of brothers and sisters is something very special. At some of their darkest hours, I’m so lucky to have been able to remind people of the love that Jesus has for them.

Learn more and find his books at https://jasonsautel.com

Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GracefullyRescued/

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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
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